The forum aims to create a trusted technological platform by integrating geospatial technology with emerging advancements, particularly through the fusion of geospatial and artificial intelligence (GEOAI)
The 14th edition of the Indo-Pacific Geo Intelligence Forum commenced from 11th June at the Taj Vivanta, Dwarka, under the theme “Resilient Multi-Domain Regional Security.” The two-day event focuses on leveraging geospatial intelligence, space-based assets, and innovative technology to address emerging threats in the strategically crucial Indo-Pacific region, the world’s fastest-growing area and a pivotal hub of global trade.
Lt. Gen AKS Chandele, President of Defense, Internal Security, and Public Safety at Geospatial World, highlighted the critical importance of the Indo-Pacific. Sanjay Kumar, CEO of Geospatial World, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the region’s significance to the global blue economy. He noted the Indian government’s commitment to investing $8-10 billion in geospatial development over the next five years, underscoring the necessity of collaboration for capacity and technology development.
Lt. Gen Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (Information Systems and Coordination), described the Indo-Pacific as an economic powerhouse housing nearly half of the world’s population. He stressed the need for geospatial technology to provide militaries in the region with a competitive edge amid a landscape of cooperation, competition, prosperity, and poverty. Citing Henry Kissinger’s “The World Order,” he underlined India’s centrality to the region’s strategic framework.
Key Regional Trends:
Lt. Gen Kapoor outlined the convergence of traditional and non-traditional threats, noting that over 35% of global cybercrimes occur in the Indo-Pacific. He pointed to rising human trafficking, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and piracy, which threaten livelihoods. Kapoor also highlighted the diminishing authority of international institutions and the need to strengthen regional structures amid evolving conflict paradigms.
Contested Realm:
Kapoor identified space as the new frontier, emphasizing the necessity for robust monitoring mechanisms to prevent geopolitical conflicts from extending into space. He called for a focus on convergences and adherence to laws to maintain stability in the economically interdependent but sensitive Indo-Pacific.
Vast Domain:
Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Indian Naval Staff, highlighted the Indo-Pacific’s extensive maritime significance, with over 50 per cent of global trade and 90 per cent of India’s trade passing through the region. He raised concerns over increasing piracy, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, contraband smuggling, and human trafficking. Sobti stressed the importance of modern technology, such as space-based assets and unmanned systems, in enhancing maritime domain awareness and mitigating threats.
Getting At The Root:
Former Indian Army Chief Gen VK Singh emphasized the need for advanced technologies to counter regional threats, advocating for enhanced coordination and cooperation. He underscored the importance of utilizing geospatial intelligence (GeoInt) applications, including artificial intelligence and data analytics, to secure the Indo-Pacific’s economic and strategic interests.
The forum aims to create a trusted technological platform by integrating geospatial technology with emerging advancements, particularly through the fusion of geospatial and artificial intelligence (GEOAI). It seeks to foster dialogue among diverse country capabilities, promoting mutual interests, high-level discussions, and technological progress.
Geospatial World has been a leading organisation in thought leadership, policy advocacy, and technology evangelism for 27 years. Committed to advancing knowledge for sustainability, it remains a cornerstone of the geospatial ecosystem, dedicated to making a difference in the global economy and society through geospatial knowledge.
